Only One Walk A Day

During these unique times of isolation, having a dog is the best thing in the world. As we know they are not just ‘a man’s best friend’ but the whole family’s. They share our time, our companionship and our emotions so it’s obvious we need to look after them as much as they look after us. 

With the new restrictions regarding Covid-19, we are all limited to only one walk a day. For some little dogs this is acceptable but for many like my energetic cockapoo, we are going to have to start using our imagination. When dogs have too much energy, things can start to get infuriating for both parties. Bad/cheeky behaviour is more likely to occur and a short temper on our part can slowly creep in. So what can we do to make sure the love stays in the air?

Firstly it’s good to focus on the time we do have outside. During any outings we make, our number one priority is for us to stay safe, follow the government guidelines and help prevent the spread of Covid-19 (please read all the government guidelines to keep up to date with all current restrictions as they are regularly changing). While the necessary restrictions are in place we can still be sensible and enjoy the great outdoors. After all, this is where all the good smells and poop spots are for our dogs, and the all important vitamin-D and fresh air for us. 

As we are unable to go for our usual long walks, throwing balls and playing fetch are great and easy ways to tire out our dogs. Also it’s amazing how much energy they use up through mental stimulation. Examples include playing ‘find it’ where our dogs have to find something we’ve hidden or for a bit of fun, we can even hide from them ourselves. Hide and Seek is also a great game for in the house and fun for all the family. Through using their noses, their sight and through interacting with us, our dogs will wear themselves out faster. Which in theory should keep their mischievous behaviour to a minimum. 

With all the current uncertainties of shops closing, restrictions changing and the unknown of how long it’s going on for, it’s best we be prepared for all occasions. While the sun is shining and the days are still, it’s hard to imagine rain, sleet, wind or anything other than bliss, right now. But being British, we all know it’s best to be prepared for all weather conditions so we can make the most of our limited time outside. This means good waterproofs and wind protectors for both us and our four-legged friends. With pet stores closing we can be organised and buy online now before the time comes when we get wet and start shivering. With a good quality jacket, like those made by Ruffwear, we will have happy puppies in all weather. Ruffwear also provide handy tips for measuring and sizing-up our dogs at home so we can be confident in ordering the right size. Plus, the bonus of having our dogs wrapped up is that our furry friends stay dry which means less time battling them with the towel when we get home.

The Ruffwear Cloud Chaser dog coat extends activities during inclement weather, protecting against rain, snow, wind, and cold. 

With all this extra time we now have at home with our dogs, we have an opportunity to be imaginative. Including Hide and Seek, there are many fun activities we can do with our pooches which use mental stimulation as well as physical. In the garden or inside we can make obstacle courses and try to teach our dogs how to complete the course using a step by step approach. We can use tasty treats, a tennis ball or whatever gets their attention to encourage them up, over or under. The learning process is just as much fun for us as it is for our dogs, as the trick is in the teaching. There is also an endless array of tricks we can attempt to train our dogs. Some pointless but entertaining like ‘roll over’, while others can be handy like picking up litter or ‘shut the door’. 

During these unprecedented times, we are the fortunate ones who have dogs to encourage us off the sofa. By getting equipped for all weather conditions and becoming imaginative in our interactions we can be sure to reap the rewards of our ‘family’s best friend’. Let’s not forget they keep us active, they give us companionship and unconditional love in times of social distancing, and are wonderfully entertaining in their own unique ways. So let’s take this opportunity to have some tail wagging fun! 

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Montane: British Brand Since 1993

New to our Pro Shop for this Spring/Summer season, the British brand Montane have dedicated over 25 years to carefully craft their reputation as a leading provider for technical outdoor apparel. Known for developing the lightest weight clothing with the highest breathability possible, to ensure maximum comfort; Montane’s equipment has been purpose built and tested to endure extreme activities in extreme conditions. All this affords you the best protection against the elements and everything in between.

Montane are the go-to brand for any mountain professional who wants innovative clothing, accessories and equipment that have the durability and tenacity needed to brave the great outdoors. This is why we thought it essential we stock them in our store!

Montane works with the world’s leading fabric suppliers to produce industry-leading materials built specifically for outdoor trails, pushing the boundaries of what is achievable for outdoor product design. In 2016, they were the first British brand to be given a GORE license in decades from GORE-TEX®.  GORE-TEX® provides extreme breathability combined with durable wind and waterproofing within outerwear clothing. Not only that, with Montane’s garments including technologies from the likes of: COOLMAX®, PrimaLoft, Pertex and Polygiene to name a few, all contribute to a products ability to regulate temperature, manage moisture and odour whilst optimising the comfort for you.

You can still wear Montane’s apparel for a run around the park or a walk through the woods; though to use their gear to the best of its ability, try pushing yourself onto rougher terrain and step outside your comfort zone! Those that choose Montane demand the most from their clothing and equipment; something that Montane’s happy to provide in spades. A minimalist, functional design that’s built to last is the epitome of their range; having been tested to the absolute limit so you can go even further, even faster.

Come in store or check online what we have to offer from Montane, including their British Mountaineering Council (BMC) collaboration of clothing, so you can start your own adventure with the right kit.

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Salomon Quest 4D 3 Gore-Tex Walking Boots – Review

Walking – hiking – is an extremely popular activity to #getoutside and a good, well fitting pair of walking boots or shoes is a must if you want to enjoy the experience!

I’ve been using the Salomon Quest 4D 3 Gore-Tex walking boots for nearly a year now. I’ve worn them over a variety of terrain, in different seasons and weather, and I have to say I’m impressed.

I chose a walking boot because I wanted to protect against the likelihood of an ankle injury, particularly on uneven terrain when carrying a heavy pack, which you do not get from a walking shoe. The Quest were both supportive and comfortable whatever the terrain. They’re relatively light-weight too, so all-in-all I was happy I had boots that were made for walking!

On the warm sunny days the Gore-Tex breathable membrane worked well with my foot-to-boot interface, commonly known as a sock, to keep my feet comfortable. Yes my feet got warm but not too sweaty and hot as the socks wicked the moisture away from my foot and through the breathable membrane of the boot.

In contrast on wet autumnal and spring days, and the occasional river crossing, the membrane and gusseted tongue kept the water out. Obviously if the puddle, stream or area of water is deeper than the height of your boot you will get a wet foot, but anything else your foot was dry!

These boots were made for walking!

So what were they like to walk in? I found the fit nice and snug, with great heel hold. The lace locker eyelets ensure you can get the foot secure before finally tying up around the ankle. They are also set back from the other eyelets to help secure your heel into the back of the boot. At first, having been use to walking shoes, this felt a bit restrictive but once underway the support was very comfortable and reassuring.

Traction was good thanks to Salomon’s Contragrip sole and lug (tread) pattern whether footpath, rocky terrain, or muddy woodland. They even performed well in the snow!

The boots come with OrthoLite insoles, however I did replace these with Superfeet’s Trailblazer Comfort insoles to tailor the fit more specifically to my feet – making them even more comfortable and my feet less tired.

Why not check out our range of walking boots and shoes, and take advantage of our boot fitting service.

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